Classic Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup

Let me tell you something: if you’ve never had a bowl of Classic Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup, you’re missing out on a whole level of cozy comfort! This delightful dish is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Plus, it’s pretty much the perfect solution for what to do with those sad potatoes sitting in your pantry. Don’t worry; I’ve been there, too.

So grab your spoon, and let’s dive into the creamy, cheesy goodness that this soup brings. 😋

Why Loaded Potato Soup Rocks

Ever wondered why loaded potato soup has such a cult following? It’s simple. It brings together creamy textures, savory flavors, and a boatload of toppings that make what could be a plain potato into a culinary masterpiece. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to make! Now, I don’t know about you, but when I hear “easy,” my ears perk up faster than a dog hearing the word “treat.”

Here’s why I love it:

Comfort in a Bowl: Seriously, what’s more comforting than a hot bowl of creamy potato goodness?
Versatile: You can customize it with whatever toppings your heart desires (more on that in a bit).
Kid-Friendly: Kids and picky adults? No problem. Everyone loves a hearty soup that’s also easy to eat. 🍽️
Fill Up the Tummy: This soup can easily serve as a meal, making it perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients You Need

Alright, so I’m not going to keep you in suspense. Let’s get down to the essentials for this delicious soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

6 large potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold are your go-to options)
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream (because, let’s be real, it’s not a party without cream!)
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Toppings

Cooked bacon, crumbled (more bacon, please!)
Shredded cheddar cheese
Sour cream
Chopped green onions or chives
Fresh parsley, for that professional touch (just don’t go overboard, you know?)

Making Your Classic Loaded Potato Soup

Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking! Are you ready? Here’s how to whip up this comforting soup from scratch.

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling and chopping your potatoes into bite-sized pieces. If you’re feeling rebellious, a little peel left on never hurt anyone – it adds fiber! Just make sure you give them a good rinse.

Step 2: Sauté It Up

In a large pot, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion and let it get all soft and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and sweep in all that aromatic goodness for about a minute (don’t burn it; garlic can get feisty!).

Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Broth

Dump those chopped potatoes into the pot and pour in the broth like you’re making a magic potion. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender. Can you smell that? 🍲

Step 4: Blend It Up

After the potatoes have achieved their tender status, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. Do you like it smooth as a baby’s bottom or chunky like your uncle’s favorite sweater? The choice is yours!

If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the soup (carefully, please!) to a standard blender in batches.

Step 5: Creamy Goodness

Stir in that glorious heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and bring it back to a gentle simmer. Let it heat through, and trust me, it’s about to get heavenly.

Step 6: Jazz It Up with Toppings

Now, for the grand finale! Ladle your soup into bowls and load it up with all the toppings: bacon, cheese, sour cream, green onions, and a sprinkle of parsley. This is where you can really make the soup your own! Go wild! It’s like a potato party in your bowl! 🎉

Tips and Tricks for the Best Soup

Let’s be real, nobody wants a boring soup experience. To elevate your Classic Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup, consider these pro tips:

Use Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for pepper jack, Gouda, or even blue cheese for a twist!
Add Vegetables: Throw in some carrots, celery, or even broccoli while the potatoes cook for added nutrients (and color!).
Make It Ahead: You can prep the soup a day ahead. Just reheat and top before serving. Cozy meals don’t have to be made same-day.
Frozen Potatoes: If you ever find yourself with a potato shortage, frozen ones work just fine! Just remember to adjust the cooking time.

Variations on Your Loaded Potato Soup

Now that you’ve mastered the classic version, why not switch things up a bit? Here are some fun variations:

Cheesy Broccoli Loaded Potato Soup

Combine potatoes with fresh or frozen broccoli. I mean, who doesn’t want a bit of green in their life? Blend it all together and top with extra cheese.

Spicy Loaded Potato Soup

Feeling bold? Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Spice it up, and watch those dreary winter days melt away.

Chicken and Loaded Potato Soup

Throw some shredded rotisserie chicken into the mix. It’s a hearty meal that packs a protein punch. Instant family favorite!

How to Store Leftovers

If you’re anything like me, you might just end up with some leftover soup (hello, meal prep). Here’s how to handle that situation like a boss:

In the Fridge: Cool the soup to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It can last up to 3 days. Just reheat gently to avoid any potato mishaps.
In the Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top—it’ll expand as it freezes.

A Final Word of Comfort

So there you have it, folks! The ultimate recipe for Classic Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup that can’t be beat. Trust me on this one: make this soup, and you’ll wonder why you ever subjected yourself to anything less comforting.

With the chilly days creeping in, there’s no better time to break out this recipe and enjoy a hot bowl of bliss. Seriously, your taste buds will thank you later. And hey—don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends; they deserve a cozy meal too!

Now, who’s ready to get cooking? 🙌